THE ROLE OF LITERATURE IN DEVELOPING CRITICAL THINKING SKILLS

Abstract

This study examines how the study of literature contributes to the development of students’ critical thinking skills. The research uses a qualitative descriptive approach to analyze theoretical and pedagogical sources that discuss the relationship between literary learning and critical reasoning. The results demonstrate that literature promotes higher-order thinking skills such as analysis, synthesis, and evaluation by encouraging students to interpret meaning, compare perspectives, and form reasoned judgments. Literary activities like discussion, debate, and reflective writing were identified as effective methods for fostering analytical and reflective abilities. The study concludes that literature, when taught through interactive and inquiry-based methods, not only enhances linguistic competence but also develops intellectual independence and emotional understanding, which are essential components of critical thinking.